SHILLONG, June 17: Leader of Opposition in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), Titosstarwell Chyne, on Wednesday objected to the late circulation of several amendment bills by the Executive Committee (EC), accusing it of denying Opposition members adequate time to scrutinise and suggest changes to important legislations.
Raising the issue on the opening day of the council’s Summer Session, Chyne expressed displeasure that copies of some of the proposed amendment bills were made available to Opposition MDCs only on the eve of the session, while the amendment to the KHAD Fisheries Act was circulated shortly before proceedings commenced on Wednesday morning.
He argued that members required sufficient time to study the proposed legislations and formulate amendments or suggestions before deliberations in the House.
“We are not here merely to support or oppose every proposal. As elected members, we have the responsibility to examine bills and provide constructive suggestions. However, that opportunity is being denied to us,” Chyne said.
He pointed out that MDCs were expected to submit amendments to some of the bills by 3 pm on the same day despite receiving copies only hours earlier.
He questioned how members could adequately study complex legislations such as the United Khasi and Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (Trading by Non-Tribals) (Amendment) Bill, the KHADC Fisheries Act amendment and other proposed laws within such a short period.
Chyne further stated that the situation was made more difficult as members were simultaneously required to focus on the council’s budget discussions.
“We have been elected by the people to raise issues and contribute to debates within this House. If we are not given the opportunity to do so here, are we expected to take these matters to the streets or organise public meetings instead?” Chyne asked.
He said the EC could have convened a special session if there was urgency in passing the legislation.
“We are deeply disappointed. Circulating important amendment bills at the last minute is not justified and does not allow members to perform their duties effectively,” Chyne stated.
On the first day of the session, the EC introduced and tabled several key legislations and reports, including the United Khasi and Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (Trading by Non-Tribals) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (Regulation and Administration of Land) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (Amendment of the Annulment Provision in the Acts) Bill, 2026, and the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Service Rules, 2026.
The EC also tabled reports relating to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Khasi Inheritance of Property) Bill, 2021, the appointment of the Secretary to the Executive Committee, elections of the Sirdars of Nongshluid and Dwara Nongtyrnem Sirdarships, and matters concerning the KHADC Service Rules, 1961.
